Method and apparatus for conducting a game of chance

ABSTRACT

A system and method are provided for playing a game of chance. The game of chance may include, for example, a lottery-type game. A result of the game of chance is revealed to a player in another medium. In one example, the result is revealed during multiple game instances of one or more online games. In one example, the online game is a prize wheel game.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C§120 to U.S. application Ser. No. 11/002,986, filed Nov. 30, 2004,entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDUCTING A WAGERING GAME OF CHANCEINCLUDING A PRIZE WHEEL GAME,” which claims priority under 35 U.S.C.§119(e) to 60/569,030, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDUCTING AGAME OF CHANCE,” filed on May 7, 2004, which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention relates generally to lotteries and gaming,and more particularly, to systems for conducting lottery-based games orcasino-based gaming.

BACKGROUND

There are many different types of games that are provided that involvethe issuance of a lottery ticket to play a game of chance. Lotterytickets are sold through retailers using machines referred to as pointof sale (POS) terminals. These tickets are generally printed at the POSterminal, and are usually issued for some lottery drawing to beperformed at a later time.

Examples of these types of lottery games of chance include traditionalstate lottery drawings and multi-state lottery drawings (e.g.,PowerBall). Another type of lottery ticket, referred to in the art asinstant lottery, includes a pre-printed scratch-type lottery ticketwhich includes a latex or similar coating that is scratched off by apurchaser (a player), revealing one or more game indicia and whether theplayer won the game or series of games as indicated on the ticket. Theindication is generally “instant” in that the player knows, when theyscratch off the ticket coating, whether or not they won the game.

There are many online games that can be played using a computer systemcoupled to a communication network (e.g., the Internet). These games mayinclude traditional games of chance, games of skill, and casino-typegames, among others.

Some systems combine lottery-type games and online games. In one suchsystem, a lottery ticket is sold to a player, who then plays a furthergame using a computer system. In such a game system, the ticket sold toa player includes a code which is correlated to a game seed stored in acomputer system upon which a computer game is played. The computer gamedetermines the correlated game seed, and this game seed is mapped to aseries of predetermined game states that lead to a predeterminedoutcome. That is, the code stored on the ticket includes the outcome. Inanother type of system, the code stored on the ticket is an encoded formof the lottery result, which is then revealed to the player at the endof play of an online game.

SUMMARY

New and more interesting game formats are needed for lottery and casinotype games that keep players' interest and therefore result in continuedand/or return players. According to one embodiment of the presentinvention, it is appreciated there is a great deal of effort and expenseto introduce additional games, especially in the casino area. Inparticular, as each game is introduced, its features are scrutinized byregulators prior to introduction. It therefore would be beneficial to beable to reduce the regulatory effort in introducing new games that areexciting to players to play. To this end, according to one aspect of thepresent invention, a system is provided having two games, one of whichis already approved by regulators whose outcomes are used to driveoutcomes of another game. Because the outcome determination and odds ofwinning the other game are driven by a previously-approved game, theregulatory hurdles associated with releasing the other game are reduced.

In one aspect of the present invention, the player is permitted to playa computer-based game (referred to hereinafter as a “primary” game)during which the game playing system reveals results of another game(referred to hereinafter as a “secondary” game). This secondary game maybe a casino or lottery-based game and, according to one embodiment, thissecondary game is already approved by regulators. One such game is thewell-known game of Keno. However, it should be appreciated that thesecondary game may be any other type of game (e.g., a lottery game). Theprimary game may be any type of computer-based game, including games ofskill and/or chance, such as card games, casino games, video games orany other type of game through which a result from another game may berevealed. In one aspect of the present invention, the play of theprimary game that the player plays does not affect the outcome of thesecondary game. In another aspect of the present invention, thesecondary game result does not affect the outcome of the primary gameplayed by the player.

In one example, the primary game involves some level of influence by theplayer on the outcome of the primary game. For instance, the primarygame may be a game of skill. However, it should be appreciated that theprimary game be a game based on chance, or combination of skill andchance. In one example, the primary game may be a prize wheel or otherrepresentation which is activated to determine if the player wins aprize. A prize wheel has numbers or other indicia that, if the wheelstops on that indicator, the player wins a prize. Although the primarygame is a prize wheel, the primary game may be any indication that showsthe player a number of prizes to be won, and, based on an activation,reveals to the player the prize won (or not). For example, therepresentation may include a spinner or other indication that, whenactivated by the player, shows the prize won.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the result of theprimary game is stored on a server coupled to a computer system uponwhich the game is played. In one example, the result is downloaded tothe computer system prior to game play. The result may be in the form ofintermediate results of each game instance that are displayed to theplayer at various points during game play. For instance, intermediateresults may be displayed to a user during an instance of prize wheelgame. In the case of a prize wheel game, a player may be permittedmultiple spins of a prize wheel to reveal one or more intermediateresults.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a prize wheel game is usedto reveal results of a secondary game (e.g., a lottery or casino-typegame). For instance, prizes are awarded during one or more instances ofa prize wheel game. According to one embodiment, the player is provideda predetermined number of opportunities to win associated with a ticket.When a ticket is issued, the ticket may be assigned, for example, anumber of game instances. Such game instances may be, for example, spinsof a prize wheel. After each game instance is played, prizes associatedwith the secondary game (e.g., a lottery or casino-type game) may berevealed.

Prizes revealed may be, for example, a cash prize awarded for aparticular game. It should be appreciated, however, that other prizesmay be awarded (e.g., merchandise, credit, free spin, etc.) and that theinvention is not limited to any particular prize type.

According to one aspect of the present invention, prizes revealed duringthe game may be stored in a database of the server and downloaded to theclient prior to play. In this example, the player may be allowed, when aticket is purchased at a POS, the ability to play a number of instancesof the game. Prizes may be awarded, for example, at each instance of theonline game. To this end, the result of each prize may be stored in thedatabase of the server, and may be indexed by an identifier of theticket. For example, the identifier may be a serial number or otherticket-identifying information.

According to one aspect of the present invention, prizes are onlyawarded at the end of each game instance. In another example, after aprize is revealed (or not) at the end of each game instance, the playeris permitted to play any remaining instances of the primary game (e.g.,a prize wheel game or other game). According to another embodiment, theplayer may not be permitted to replay game instances after they havebeen played. To this end, a game-playing system may maintain a status ofthe game instances played by the player. The game-playing system maymaintain other information, such as game play information, how prizesare revealed to the player, and other information that may be useful forassessing or auditing game play and playing experiences of the player.

Each instance of the game may include an associated prize (or not), andthese prizes may be combined for an overall prize associated with theticket. In one example, the prize associated with the first instance ofthe prize wheel game is $10. A prize associated with a second instanceof the prize wheel game is $15. The prizes associated with each instanceof the prize wheel game and its second level may be stored as an entryin the database of the server.

Alternatively, the result of each prize for each instance of the gamemay be determined dynamically by the client computer. For example, ifthe overall prize (e.g., $25) for the ticket is known, the client candetermine (e.g., randomly) a distribution of winnings of the overallprize among game instances. In the example above, a play of the ticketon one computer could award a $25 prize among two game instances asfollows: $5 prize for the first game instance and $20 for the secondgame instance. Another play of the ticket on the same or differentcomputer may award a $25 prize differently among the two game instances(e.g., $10 for the first game instance, $15 for the second gameinstance, etc.). It should be appreciated, however, that the game mayinclude any number of game instances, and the prize associated with eachgame instance may be stored in any storage location (e.g., at the clientcomputer, at the server, etc.).

In another example system, prizes may be awarded in association withitems collected in the game (e.g., a bonus item in a prize wheel game).Therefore, prizes may be distributed among items as well as beingdistributed among game instances. As discussed, prize distribution maybe stored in a database of the server, may be determined by the client(e.g., randomly), or may be stored at any location or be determined byany manner by the client.

In another embodiment, a prize wheel game (or other reveal method) maybe combined with another game. This game may be a game for amusementonly, which keeps the player's interest after it is determined that theplayer does not win a prize. For instance, in the case of a prize wheelgame having indicia on certain sections of the prize wheel that indicatethe player does not win a prize, a second level game for amusement maybe started when the prize wheel stops on any one of these sections. Inthis manner, a player receives something from losing the game (or aparticular game instance), and there is an increased participation inthe game as a result. Traditionally, players are provided incentives towin games, not to lose them. According to one embodiment, losing playersare provided an enhanced game experience to encourage repeat play of thegame, or to encourage continued participation within the same game.

The second level game may be, for example, a trivia game. In oneexample, each of the sections of the prize wheel has a prize, oralternatively, a word phrase with which a piece of trivia may beassociated. If the prize wheel stops on a section having one of theseword phrases, the player is shown the piece of trivia related to theword phrase shown on the section. In one example of a game having threespins of a prize wheel, the first spin of the prize wheel may reveal anominal prize, and the remaining two spins may reveal trivia associatedwith sections of the prize wheel. Because the second level game keepsplayer interest, more flexibility is provided to the game programmer forscripting the outcomes of games. More particularly, the secondary gamemay be used as bridge between prize reveals to maintain player interest.

Trivia associated with the second level game may be stored, for example,in a database of a game server. Content of the trivia game may beupdated frequently to provide a more interesting game experience.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an improved gameexperience is provided for revealing the result of an online game. Asdiscussed above, a player purchases a ticket or other game piece at aPOS or other location. On the ticket, multiple plays of an associatedonline game are provided with each ticket or other game piece. Theplayer can play those multiple plays across a set of games. Forinstance, the set of games may include, for example, games of skilland/or chance as discussed above. Certain games may include one or moreattempts (or opportunities) for winning prizes. These opportunities forwinning may be associated with one or more prizes. For example, a playerplaying a slot machine may be awarded a certain number of opportunitiesto play a game (e.g., a game instance (or game play) or otheropportunity to win a prize when playing a particular game instance). Inthe case of a prize wheel game, the player may be provided a particularnumber of spins of a particular prize wheel game (or multiple prizewheel game instances having one or more spins), and, as a result of eachprize wheel spin, the player may be awarded (or not) a prize. In oneembodiment, the result of the overall game is predetermined, and a gameexperience is determined for each opportunity (e.g., prize wheel spin,prize wheel game instance) that results in a contribution to the resultof the overall game.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the type of gamethat is played is immaterial to the outcome revealed to the player. Moreparticularly, the same outcomes associated with a particular ticket maybe used to drive multiple types of games. This allows, for example, thegaming operator to offer multiple types of games with a single ticket,and allows the player to select which game(s) to play to reveal theoutcomes associated with the particular ticket. For instance, the playermay elect to play a prize wheel game for a first game instance of aticket, and for a second instance, play a different game. Of course, itshould be appreciated that any type of game and other combinations ofgames are possible. In this manner, the player may be provided theflexibility to play particular games in which the player is interested,thereby increasing his/her interest and participation in the game.Further, the game operator is provided additional flexibility as newgames may be introduced/substituted that are associated with the sameticket or other game piece.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the outcome of thegame is predetermined at the time of ticket printing, issuance, orpurchase or shortly thereafter. That is, the game outcome associatedwith a particular ticket is available prior to, at the same time, orshortly thereafter the ticket is provided to the player, after whichtime the player is permitted to play any games to reveal thepredetermined outcome. In another embodiment, outcomes associated withtickets issued to the player are determined some time after the ticketissuance (i.e., outcomes are “post-determined”). Such is the case withKeno or other drawing-based games wherein game outcomes are determinedafter ticket issuance. In such a game, players are permitted to obtainthe outcome at a predetermined time, usually after the player haspurchased the ticket. In one aspect of the invention, it may bebeneficial to have a later activation of tickets, especially in the caseof a ticket-based game where tickets are issued in some other gamingenvironment (e.g., a casino). It may be desirable to only permit theplayer to play such a game outside the gaming environment so as not tocompete with other games. Additionally, it may be desirable to requirethe player to revisit the gaming environment to redeem the ticket andincrease the chances that the player will purchase additional tickets orplay other types of games offered in the gaming environment.

Also, according to another aspect of the present invention, a first gamemay be used to reveal the result of a second game. As discussed above,this second game may be one which is already approved by regulators.Such a system may be, for example, a game whose results are driven by arandom number generator (or RNG as referred to in the art). One suchgame is the well-known game of Keno. Another game that may be used isthe well-known game of bingo. Other games may be used to drive theoutcome of an online game.

In one example, a Keno game and its associated system are used togenerate reveal results which are revealed to a player during play of anonline game. To this end, a Keno-based system may be used in conjunctionwith an online gaming system to present new and interesting online gameswhose outcomes are driven by results provided by the Keno system. In oneparticular example, a Keno system provides a correlation of a ticketidentifier to a Keno game which is held at some predetermined time. Asthe Keno numbers are drawn, an outcome is produced associated with theparticular ticket identifier and provided to an online gaming system.The online gaming system uses the produced outcome to render a new andinteresting gaming experience within an online gaming environment. Asdiscussed, such an environment may include online play of one or moreonline games of skill, chance, or combination thereof.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, wins are optimizedacross game instances associated with a ticket. For instance, a ticketmay have a predetermined outcome (for example, awarding a prize of $50),that may be allocated across the game instances associated with thatticket. For example, in the case of winning $50 on a 5-play (5 gameinstances) ticket, it may be desired to allocate the wins across gameinstances to provide a particular game experience. For instance, thegame experience of winning $50 may be distributed across five gameinstances (e.g., five separate games, respectively winning $5, $0, $0,$5, $40) to provide the player an early indication of winning. In theexample of a prize wheel game, winnings may be distributed amongconsecutive spins of prize wheel. Also, the remaining game play of thegame instances may be scripted to build the drama of the game experiencewhile still retaining player interest. Such a scripted outcome is moreinteresting, according to one embodiment, as the player is presented anoutcome in a way such that retains interest in the game. This isbeneficial, as an overall result includes extending scratch-type gamesor other type of game experience beyond the point of sale, and beyondthe instant (but fleeting) gratification associated with scratch-type orother instant ticket game experiences.

According to one embodiment, a player is permitted to wager and redeembets at authorized locations (e.g., legal jurisdictions such as lotteryretail establishments, casinos, and the like) while the online portionof the game may be played in any locale or jurisdiction. In such a case,the casino or lottery experience is extended to locations whereotherwise lottery and/or casino games are not available. Thereafter,players return to the lottery or casino establishment to redeem theirtickets thereby providing yet another opportunity to entertain theplayer.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, winningresults may be split across opportunities to win. One embodiment of thepresent invention relates generally to how wins are shown to the playeracross win opportunities. In one specific example, one embodimentrelates to a method for revealing wins to a player across a play ofmultiple game instances that build excitement for the player and whichholds the interest of the player in continuing to play the game. It isappreciated that the game experience may be made more compelling if winsare distributed among win opportunities in an interesting way.

Another method for maintaining the interest of players includes awardingadditional opportunities to win with each ticket. For instance, one ofthe prizes awarded with a particular opportunity to win (e.g., duringthe play of the game instance) may be one or more additionalopportunities to win. For instance, in a prize wheel game, an issuedticket may be associated with three (3) spins of prize wheel. One of theprizes awarded with the ticket may include additional game instances. Atthe time of initial ticket activation, it may be predetermined that theticket is associated with these additional opportunities to win, andthese additional opportunities may be associated with the issued ticket.The player, when playing the game, will obtain additional satisfactionin playing because the number of game instances to be played by theplayer are increased, and therefore, their opportunity to win is alsoincreased. This may be beneficial to create a more realistic gamingexperience where additional games may be awarded during play. However,unlike in other environments (e.g., a casino) wherein play can becontinued from an online account or by placing additional bets to createa more continuous game experience, the additional win opportunities areawarded to a single ticket.

In the case where an online game system is a Keno-based or otherdrawing-based systems wherein results are not predetermined, additionalopportunities to win may be associated with the ticket in the form ofadditional numbers selected by a computer system and associated with theticket at the time of a drawing. This may be performed, for example, byassigning one or more additional drawing entries as a prize itself inthe pay table associated with the Keno or other drawing-based game. Moreparticularly, the drawing entries may be awarded as prizes, whichthemselves are indexes into other entries in the same pay table. Suchadditional entries may correspond to one or more prizes. For example,when the drawing occurs, the additional plays are awarded to the drawingnumbers associated with the ticket. These drawing numbers may beassociated with a particular game instance, of which there may be manyassociated with one ticket. At the point when the ticket is activated bythe result of the drawing and play of the online game is permitted, theplayer, upon the beginning of play of the ticket or a particular gameinstance, the player is awarded the additional plays (and therefore, anyprizes) associated with these additional plays. The additional plays maybe played as additional game instances, which themselves have additionalreveal opportunities. Alternatively, additional reveal opportunities maybe added to one or more other game instances to make game play moreexciting.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method ispresented for providing players an enhanced gaming experience. Accordingto one embodiment, it is appreciated that it is beneficial to enhanceplayers' interest in playing games, particularly losing ones. In oneembodiment, an illusion is presented to players to provide the illusionof being very close to winning a particular game. For instance, in thecase of a prize wheel game, the prize wheel game result may indicate,that the player received a result that was close to winning (e.g., theprize wheel stops close, but not on, a large prize), and only with therevealing of the last spin does the player realize that he/she has lostthe game. According to one aspect, it is realized that the losing gameexperience should compel the player to continue playing the game.

In another example system, prizes may be awarded in association witheach item collected in the game (e.g., number of points achieved in aslot machine type game, achieving a particular outcome in a prize wheelgame). Therefore, prizes may be distributed among elements or levelsduring play as well as being distributed among game instances. Asdiscussed, prize distribution may be stored in a database of the server,may be determined by the client (e.g., randomly), or may be stored atany location or be determined by any manner by the client.

According to another aspect of the invention, it is appreciated thatconventional methods for playing online games of chance are not secure.In particular, because the result or outcome of the game orpredetermined sequence of game states may be encoded on a ticket, thelottery game may be compromised if the winning codes are deciphered.Such a deciphering could occur, for example, by hacking a computersystem associated with the online lottery and obtaining a list ofwinning tickets, or reverse engineering software (e.g., on a PC) wherethe winning codes or sequence of game states may be stored. Further, itis realized that in such conventional systems, the lottery ticket or theonline game software and its data are single points of security failuresin the system.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a method for conducting agame of chance. According to one embodiment, a more secure method isprovided by which an online game may be played. Instead of placing agame seed that determines a sequence of game states on a ticket (e.g.,an instant scratch or lottery ticket), the game states or outcomes maynot be placed on the ticket. Rather, the outcomes may be stored in anonline database. To this end, a code may be stored on the ticket, thecode being used as a decryption key used to find the outcome stored inthe database. In particular, there may be a mapping between an outcomecode and a corresponding decryption key that is printed on the ticket.

Because the decryption key is placed on the ticket, unauthorized accessto the online game is not permitted without the physical ticket. Inanother embodiment, a portion of the decryption key is placed on theticket, and another portion is stored in a database associated with theonline game. In this manner, security cannot be breached without havingboth portions of the key (either having the issued ticket portion or theonline portion). Thus, a hacker may not compromise a lottery ticketdatabase without the ticket, and, by virtue of having a winning ticket,other winning ticket numbers may not be determined Access to the onlineportion of the key may be obtained, for example, by providing some otherinformation (e.g., a serial number printed on the ticket). However, itshould be appreciated that the information used to gain access to theonline portion of the key need not be printed on the ticket—theinformation may be provided on some other medium or by another method.

The ticket may be, for example, a scratch-type lottery or “instant”ticket, pull-tab, or type of pre-printed ticket type. Alternatively, theticket may be a printed lottery ticket as is known in the art, which isa ticket printed at a Point of Sale (POS), usually in the form of alottery drawing ticket (e.g., PowerBall or other type lottery drawinggame). Also, the ticket may be an electronic ticket issued by a computersystem. It should be appreciated that the ticket may be any type ofticket issued in any form, and the invention is not limited to anyparticular ticket type method of issuing a ticket.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for playing agame of chance is provided. The method comprises acts of issuing aticket to a player, the ticket including a code printed on a surface ofthe ticket, and providing for the player to play a prize wheel game ondifferent medium than the issued ticket, wherein the code is used togain access to obtain results of the game of chance. According to oneembodiment of the invention, the act of issuing a ticket includesissuing at least one of a lottery ticket, a scratch ticket, and apull-tab ticket. According to another embodiment, the act of providingfurther comprises an act of providing a computer-based game which theplayer plays the prize wheel game to reveal the results of the game ofchance. According to another embodiment, the act of providing acomputer-based game further comprises an act of permitting access to theresults of the game of chance by using the code as a decryption key toobtain the results. According to another embodiment, the method furthercomprises an act of storing, on a server, the results of the game ofchance. According to another embodiment, the method further comprisesstoring, in a database of a computer system, a portion of a decryptionkey, the portion being used along with the code by the computer systemto obtain the results.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the act of providingincludes an act of permitting access to a website to play the prizewheel game. According to another embodiment, the method furthercomprises an act of obtaining, from the database of the computer system,the portion of the decryption key based on an identifier printed on theticket. According to another embodiment, the identifier is a serialnumber associated with the ticket. According to another embodiment, themethod further comprises an act of presenting, to the player, aninterface in which the player is permitted to enter the code to obtainsecurity access to the results. According to another embodiment, theprize wheel game is a game of chance. According to another embodiment,at least one spin of a prize wheel in the prize wheel game is determinedby a random number generator. According to another embodiment, the prizewheel game is a computer-based game including a prize wheel having oneor more prize wheel sections, each section having associated indiciathat, when selected by spinning the prize wheel, provides one or moreprizes to the player. According to another embodiment, the methodfurther comprises an act of providing a pay table, the pay table havinga plurality of entries distributed among the one or more prize wheelsections.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the prize total for theticket is predetermined. According to another embodiment, the sequenceof reveals is predetermined. According to another embodiment, thereveals are randomly determined by the client. According to anotherembodiment, the sequence of reveals is stored in a database of a server.According to another embodiment, the plurality of entries of the paytable are distributed among a plurality of instances of the prize wheelgame. According to another embodiment, the method further comprises anact of increasing a magnitude of available prizes distributed to laterinstances of the prize wheel game. According to another embodiment, theresult of the at least one spin of the prize wheel game reveals a prizewon by the player. According to another embodiment, the prize won by theplayer is at least one of cash, merchandise, and credit. According toanother embodiment, an indication of the prize won by the player isstored in a database of a server, and is downloaded to a computerpresenting the computer-based game to the player. According to anotherembodiment, the method further comprises an act of associating, with theticket, additional opportunities to win. According to anotherembodiment, the additional opportunities to win include one or moreadditional reveals of results associated with the game of chance.According to another embodiment, the one or more additional reveals ofresults are presented during play of an online game.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the method furthercomprises an act of providing, by a first server associated with a firstgame, a result associated with the game of chance. According to anotherembodiment, the method further comprises an act of storing, in a memoryof a computer system, the result associated with the game of chance.According to another embodiment, the method further comprises an act ofassociating the result with an indication of the ticket. According toanother embodiment, the indication of the ticket is unique amongindicators of a plurality of tickets. According to another embodiment,the first server further comprises a random number generator, and therandom number generator performs an act of determining a set numbersassociated with the issued ticket. According to another embodiment, themethod further comprises an act of determining a set of winning numbersassociated with the game of chance. According to another embodiment, themethod further comprises an act of determining the result of the game ofchance based on a comparison of the set of numbers associated with theissued ticket and the set of winning numbers. According to anotherembodiment, the game of chance includes at least one of a Keno game anda bingo game, and the act of determining a set of numbers associatedwith the issued ticket comprises an act of selecting a predeterminednumber of numbers from a predetermined set of numbers.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the method furthercomprises an act of permitting the player to redeem the issued ticketwithout playing the game on the different medium. According to anotherembodiment, the sequence of reveals is determined by a predeterminedgame script. According to another embodiment, the sequence of reveals isdetermined dynamically by a game playing computer system. According toanother embodiment, the method further comprises an act of determining apredetermined game script where a magnitude of prizes awarded forreveals associated with later win opportunities are progressivelygreater than the magnitude of prizes associated with reveals associatedwith earlier win opportunities. According to another embodiment, themethod further comprises an act of determining, for an issued ticketindicated as a losing ticket, a game script comprising an indicationthat the player was substantially close to winning. According to anotherembodiment, the player must wait a predetermined time period beforeredeeming the ticket. According to another embodiment, the player mustwait until a specific event has been completed before redeeming theticket. According to another embodiment, the player must wait until aspecific event has been completed before gaining access to obtainresults associated with the ticket. According to another embodiment, theissued ticket discloses the number of prize wheel game instances awardedthe player.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the prize total for theticket is determined after the ticket is issued to the player. Accordingto another embodiment, the method further comprises an act ofdetermining an outcome associated with the ticket based on a drawing.According to another embodiment, the method further comprises an act ofpermitting the player to play the prize wheel game in response to theact of determining the outcome. According to another embodiment, theprize total for the ticket is determined prior to issuing the ticket tothe player. According to another embodiment, the method furthercomprises an act of increasing a magnitude of available prizesdistributed to later spins of the prize wheel game within an instance ofthe prize wheel game.

Further features and advantages of the present invention as well as thestructure and operation of various embodiments of the present inventionare described in detail below with reference to the accompanyingdrawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals indicate like orfunctionally similar elements. Additionally, the left-most one or twodigits of a reference numeral identifies the drawing in which thereference numeral first appears.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In thedrawings, each identical or nearly identical component that isillustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. Forpurposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in everydrawing. In the drawings,

FIG. 1 is block diagram of a system for conducting a game according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an example ticket that may be issued in association with agame according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart of a process for conducting a game according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a process for conducting a game according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a system for conducting a game according to according to oneembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 6 is a game interface according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 2 shows an example ticket 201 that may be issued to a player. Theplayer may scratch a surface of the ticket (in the case of a scratchticket) to reveal one or more indications. These indications mayinclude, for example, a serial number of the ticket, an access code, orother indication (or combination thereof) that may be used to access theonline game. Alternatively, the ticket may be a pull-tab ticket or otherticket type suitable for presenting indications to a player.

The ticket may include other indications (e.g., a decryption key orportion thereof as described above that may be used to decrypt gameresults). Also, the ticket may indicate to a player the number of playsof a second game (e.g., as played by the player on a computer system).For instance, in the case of a slot machine game, the ticket mayindicate the number of spins that a player may be awarded by the ticket.Further, as discussed above, the player may be permitted to play any oneof a number of offered games, and the player may select different gamesto play to reveal results associated with game instances.

In one embodiment, ticket 201 includes a code 202 printed on a surfaceof the ticket that provides access to outcomes (e.g., prizes) stored onthe server. As discussed, code 202 may also include, as an optionalfeature to increase security, a key that may be used to decrypt theoutcome. This outcome may be stored in a database stored on a serversystem. Ticket 201 may also include a ticket identifier 203 used toidentify the ticket, and which may be used to identify the outcomeassociated with the ticket. Further, ticket 201 may include a gameindication 204 that relates information relevant to a game played on acomputer system. For example, there may also be stored, on the ticket,an identifier that indicates, to the player, the number of playsassociated with an online game. In one example, a player purchases aticket at a retailer or other POS location.

The player then proceeds to play a game on a computer system. FIG. 1shows an example system 100 according to one embodiment of the inventionupon which a game may be played. The user (a player) 110 plays a gamethrough an interface of a host computer system (e.g. host 101). Host 101may be any type of computer system that is capable of playing a game.The host may be, for example, a general-purpose computer system (e.g., apersonal computer (PC)) that connects to a network (e.g., the Internet).Other general purpose computer system types (e.g., a PDA, a cell phone,set-top box, or other system type) may be used to play the game.

The computer system may be coupled to a server system 103 through one ormore communication networks 102. The server may provide a game program109 that is executed by host 101 for playing the game. Moreparticularly, game program 109, when executed, may provide an onlinegame that can be played by a user through an interface associated withhost 101. This online game may be, for example, a video slot machine,blackjack, or other online or casino-type game.

The game program may be stored, for example, in a computer-readablemedium (e.g., a memory, storage, or other media) associated with server103 that provides game programs. For instance, the game program may bestored on a web server and downloaded to a client computer over theInternet. Game program 109 may be one of a number of game programsassociated with an online game experience. Different game programs maybe selectively downloaded to the client, based on the type of gameticket issued, the game selected for play by the user, the type ofclient used, or other criteria.

Server 103 may also be a general-purpose computer system, or any othertype of computer system capable of authenticating tickets, providinggame programs, and performing other game-related functions. Further, itshould be appreciated that various game functions may be performed byone or more server systems. Server 103 generally includes a processor104 for executing server-based game functions. Server 103 may alsoinclude a memory 105 for storing data associated with game programs.Server 103 may also include one or more network interfaces 106 thatcouple server 103 to network 102, which permit server 103 to communicatewith one or more hosts. Further, server 103 may include one or morestorage entities 107, including disks or other media for storing data.In one embodiment, storage 107 is adapted to store one or more gameprograms 109 as discussed above. Server 103 may have any number or typeof processor that executes an operating system and one or moreapplication programs. In one embodiment, server 103 provides web servercontent to one or more clients for the purpose of accessing and playingthe game.

Server 103 may also include a database 108 that is adapted to store oneor more outcomes associated with a ticket or other gaming piece. Asdiscussed, the outcome may be indexed using an identifier of the ticket.

FIG. 3 shows one example process for conducting a game according to oneembodiment of the present invention. At block 301, process 300 begins.At block 302, a player is issued a ticket. As discussed, a player maypurchase a ticket at a retailer or other POS location. At some latertime and/or location, the player may play an online game on one or morecomputer systems (e.g., a PC or other computer system capable of playinggames). For instance, at block 303, a host computer system (e.g., host101) executes a game program. The game program may be, for example, anonline game that includes one or more components downloaded over acommunication network (e.g., the Internet).

As discussed, the ticket may include a code which is used to access theoutcome of a game. This code may be printed on a face of the ticket asdiscussed above with reference to FIG. 2. In one example system, theplayer accesses a website that includes an interface in which the playermay enter the code at block 304.

This interface may be, for example, used to access the game, or may beany other interface (e.g., an interface used to access a downloadwebsite used for downloading game software (e.g., game program 109)).The interface may be programmed in one or more computer languages (e.g.,an HTML, Java, Macromedia Flash, or other type interface) and mayinclude a text entry box in which the player can input the code. Theinterface may include other ways of entering a code or other parameter(e.g., a glyph printed on a ticket) that allows the user to gain accessto the game. It should be appreciated that the invention is not limitedto any particular method for entering the code, or any format of thecode, and that any type of code or method of entry may be used.

The player enters the code, and an outcome is determined at block 305based on the code. More particularly, there may be a mapping between thecode printed on the ticket and an outcome stored on the server. Thiscode may be stored, for example, in a database structure stored indatabase 108 of the server. Database 108 may be, for example, arelational database, object database, flat file database, or otherorganizational entities used to store and maintain data. Further alisting of winning codes may be furnished to an organization thatprovides the game (such as, for example, a state-run lotterycommission). The code may, as discussed above, include an optionaldecryption key that decrypts an entry stored on the server. This entrymay indicate one or more outcomes of game instances.

The outcome of the game is then used by the online game to determineplay of the game by the player at block 306. For instance, if the storedoutcome is “Win $50,” the online game may present an outcome to theplayer that indicates that the player won a $50 prize. This presentationmay be in the form of one or more reveals presented to the player whileplaying the online game at block 307. The presentation may beprogressive, in that the ultimate outcome (e.g., “Win $50”) is achievedthrough a set of reveals or progressions through the online game. Forexample, in the case where a prize wheel game is played wherein outcomesare revealed during the play of one or more prize wheel games instances,spins, etc., such reveal outcomes presented during the game associatedwith each prize wheel game instance may be stored on the server.

As discussed, prizes may be distributed over game instances and/or items(or more generally, win opportunities) to maximize game interest and toentice the player to play each game instance associated with aparticular ticket. For example, one approach may include providing tothe player an early (relative in the series of game instances)indication of winning to keep the player interested. As the player playsmore game instances, the magnitude of the prizes may be adjusted suchthat a level of game “drama” is increased. That is, prize values areadjusted among later game instances to provide relatively higher prizevalues in later games. Other approaches/distributions may be providedfor increasing or maintaining game interest.

Once played, the player may redeem the ticket at the point of sale orother redemption location at block 308. Alternatively, the player may bepermitted to redeem the ticket without playing the game. Redemption maybe permitted, for example, after a predetermined time. For instance, theplayer may be permitted to redeem a ticket after a set time (e.g., 10PM), a particular time period after ticket purchase (e.g., 24 hours) orother absolute or relative time. This may be the case for a Keno orlottery-based system, where a Keno or lottery result is made availableat a set time after ticket purchase. Alternatively, tickets may beredeemed immediately after purchase. At block 309, process 300 ends.

Payouts may be determined by a pay table associated with the game. Thenumber of tickets may be determined a priori, and a pay table thatdetermines payouts may be allocated to the tickets. This allocation maybe determined, for example, by shuffling the pay table and allocatingresults to tickets. The following is an example of a pay table that maybe used with a game according to one embodiment of the invention:

Number of Tickets Issued: 2000 Ticket Price: $5

TABLE I Example Payout Table Number of Tickets Payout 1 $100 700 $10 500$5 100 $1 600 $0

-   -   Game Operator Return: $300 (3%)—expenses

As shown in the example above, a certain number of tickets may beallocated as winning tickets having a particular payout (e.g., anoutcome). Some tickets may have no payout associated with them, and somemay only have a nominal payout (e.g., a small award amount, free ticket,etc.). A small number of tickets may include a large payout as comparedto the magnitude of other payouts. It should be appreciated, however,that payouts are not limited to money, but other types of prizes may beawarded including merchandise, credit, loyalty points or any otherrepresentation of value.

The odds of winning may be the type of odds experienced in actual(rather than computer-based) games. Alternatively, the odds of winningmay not necessarily be “natural” odds of winning any particular type ofgame, but rather, the odds may be adjusted to obtain the outcome desired(e.g., by the gaming operator). The odds of winning, number of winningtickets, amount of payout per ticket, or other payout parameter may beany amount or number, and the invention is not limited to any particularodds of winning, number of winning tickets, payout amount or type ofpayout. However, according to one embodiment, the overall odds ofwinning, amount and type of payout, etc. may be similar to a gamepreviously approved by regulators (e.g., Keno, bingo, etc.) so that theuse of an additional game to display an outcome associated with thepreviously-approved game is scrutinized much less by regulators, and asa result, the approval of the additional game is less burdensome. Tothis end, a system associated with the previously-approved game mayprovide ticket and outcome information to a system conducting an onlinegame (e.g. server 103).

The code stored on the server (e.g., server 103) may be used todetermine game play as played on the computer system. For instance, thegame outcome may be “Win $50.” In the case of a prize wheel game, theticket may indicate that the player receives three (3) spins of a prizewheel game. The outcome of each instance may be predetermined, and thegame may retrieve information from the server indicating a predeterminedsequence of game play as discussed above. In the case of a prize wheelgame, the predetermined sequence may indicate winnings associated witheach of the game instances, what sequence the prize wheel spins for eachgame instance (e.g., wherein prizes are not awarded for particularintermediate indications shown by the prize wheel, but wherein the gameexperience is still predetermined), any trivia shown in conjunction withlosing sections of the prize wheel, and/or an indication of a prize wonas a result of playing each of the game instances. It should beappreciated that any aspect of game play may be predetermined andassociated with the code.

In another example, only the overall outcome is predetermined (e.g., thetotal winning associated with the ticket), and the sequence of game playmay be determined when the game is played. In the example above wherethe player is indicated as winning $50 over 10 spins, the $50 winnings(and any intermediate losses) may be allocated to the player at anypoint over the 10 spins. In the case of any other type of game, winningsmay be allocated across game instances. In a further example, winningsmay be allocated across items collected while playing a game instance.Because the number of items collected may vary depending on the skill ofthe player, the distribution of prizes among collected items may bedetermined during game play by the game playing system.

This allocation may be determined by the server, the game softwareexecuting on the client, or a combination thereof. Further, the gameplay may be randomized in that a further play using the same ticket mayyield a different sequence of game states leading to the same outcome.For example, in the case of a slot machine game as described above, aplayer may be indicated as winning $50, but the sequence by which theplayer attains the $50 winning outcome may be different depending onvarious factors. Such factors may include a randomization function thatdetermines results of individual game plays (e.g., in the case of aseries of prize wheel game, the result of spins for each game), or someother function. The series of intermediate outcomes may be stored in adatabase associated with the server as discussed above with respect togame outcomes. Also, the outcomes may be adjusted using a formula orrule-based approach during execution of the game to increase the gamedrama and heighten the game playing experience.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a player maypurchase a ticket at a point of purchase (e.g., a convenience store) andthe indication of a win/no win condition of the ticket is revealed on adifferent medium. For instance, a player purchases a scratch ticket in aconvenience or other type of store. The prize that the player wins isnot revealed on the scratch card itself, but rather the prize isrevealed through another medium (e.g., on a home computer system, PDA,cell phone, etc.).

For instance, as discussed above, the player may be presented anothergame (e.g., a prize wheel game, a card game, casino game, or any othergame) that reveals at least a portion of the prize. The underlyingprizes available via the reveals may be predetermined, in that theoutcome of the game may be stored in one or more systems. The scratchticket may reveal different numbers of plays (e.g., spins in the case ofa prize wheel game, a slot-machine type game, or game instances of anyother type of game) the player receives.

In one aspect of the present invention, the ticket includesauthentication information that is used to obtain the reveals. In oneexample, the scratch ticket contains a secret key which is used todecrypt the results that are revealed to the player. That is, accordingto one aspect, it is impossible to determine if and what a particularticket wins without having possession of the ticket (and therefore thesecret key). In another example, the scratch ticket could contain only aportion of the secret key. The other portion of the key may be stored,for example, on a server and retrieved from a database (e.g., file,relational database, etc.) based on, for example, the serial number ofthe card. Mappings of serial numbers of tickets to encrypted results canbe provided to the lottery provider for additional audit control.

A process for performing secure access to outcomes is shown in FIG. 4.At block 401, process 400 begins. A server (e.g., server 103) may storea number of outcomes in encrypted form, each of which outcomes can beaccessed by a respective code. These outcomes may be encrypted, forexample, using any encryption method (e.g., symmetric, asymmetricencryption) as is known in the art. At block 402, a code is provided tothe server (e.g., server 103).

This code may be, for example, a secret code (e.g., a symmetric key, aprivate key) printed on a ticket and provided to the server by a userthrough an interface of a computer system as discussed above. Thereceived code may be transmitted between systems using a securetransmission method (e.g., SSL) as is known in the art. The receivedcode is used at block 403 to decrypt the outcome stored on the server.This code may be any decryption key type that may be used to decodedata, and may be of any format or length. The decrypted outcome may thenbe presented to a player at block 405. The outcome may be displayedusing any method. For example, as discussed above, the outcome may bepresented through one or more reveals presented to the player duringplay of an online game. At block 405, process 400 ends.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a lottery-basedsoftware game that can be played over a network, such as the Internet.According to one embodiment, the system includes a purchase of ascratch-based or printed ticket by a player at a point of service (POS).A POS may be, for example, a place at which lottery tickets may be sold,including convenience stores or other locations where lottery productsare provided. In an alternative system provided at a casino or othergaming establishment, a ticket may be sold to a player at the casino forplay at a later time.

The player receives the ticket at the POS or other location, andproceeds to play a computer-based game at another location to reveal aresult (or outcome) of the game. The computer-based game may be, forexample, a casino-type game (e.g. slot machine, video poker) or othertype of game, including amusement games or games of chance. In the caseof the scratch or printed ticket, the result is not apparent to theplayer until the player plays the computer-based game. This game may be,for example, a software program that is downloaded and played over theInternet. Alternatively, other ways of accessing the online portion ofthe game may be used (e.g., PDA, cell phone or other method).

The ticket includes a code by which a player gains access to a resultstored on a server that stores ticket information and results associatedwith each ticket. Such information may be predetermined at the time ofticket sale, or the results may not be known until a later time (in thecase of a keno or other drawing-based system). According to oneembodiment, the code is an access key (or a portion thereof) that isused to access the result stored on the server. Further, the result(stored in the server) may be encrypted. For example, the code may be aprivate key or a symmetric key. The key may be transmitted by a clientcomputer system to the server for the purpose of decrypting the resultusing SSL or any other secure method.

Because the decryption key is stored on the ticket, the gaming system issafer, as a breach of security of either the tickets or the server doesnot provide access to result information. More particularly, access tothe lottery ticket database may not be accomplished without the ticket(used to decrypt the result). Further, the tickets may not be correlatedto results without the lottery ticket database (because the results arestored in the database, not on the tickets).

In another example of the system, a portion of the key used to decryptresults of the game is stored on the ticket, and another portion isstored in the database of the server. In this manner, it is assured thatpossession of either portion of the key may not compromise the results.

However, it should be appreciated that the system does not require SSLor any other encryption/decryption method, a decryption key on theticket, or the stored result on the server to be encrypted. Rather, thegame can be implemented with or without these features. That is, accessto the outcome stored at the server may be performed using only theserial number or other ticket identifier printed on the ticket.

The scratch-based or printed ticket also includes a second serial numberor other identifier (e.g., an access code) in addition to the serialnumber or other identifier which is correlated to results on the server.A ticket may include both a serial number and a ticket identifier usedby the system. According to one embodiment, it is appreciated that theremay be security issues with using the serial number of a printed ticket(as printed on the ticket) to correlate to win outcomes. That is, thelottery provider may not allow any entity outside of the lottery systemto have the ability to correlate outcomes to serial numbers. To thisend, another identifier (e.g., a separate ticket identifier or accesscode) may be provided on a ticket to allow the system to index into anoutcome database.

In one example system that works in association with a lottery system,outcomes for a game may be predetermined to comply with lottery rules.In this case, outcomes are predetermined and stored in a database. In analternative environment where results are not permitted to bepredetermined (e.g., in a casino), but rather are determined at a latertime (e.g., by a drawing or other method), a ticket issued by a systemin such an environment may have an associated drawing time when a gamemay be played.

In the case where the online game system is driven by a Keno gameresult, each ticket may be associated with a set of numbers in the Kenogame, and the result of the Keno game is provided as the result for theonline game. In one example, a computer system automatically picksnumbers associated with the ticket at the point when the ticket isissued. Thereafter, when the Keno game occurs, the result of the Kenodraw is provided to an online game system, which translates the Kenoresult to a game experience within another game (e.g., a prize wheelgame, a slot machine game, etc.). It should be appreciated, however,that although the game of Keno may be used to drive an online gameexperience, other games (e.g., bingo) may be used.

The server (e.g., server 103) may be capable of accepting, from theuser, an input of the serial number and decryption key, and in response,providing the results associated with the particular ticket. The resultor outcome of the game may be displayed to the player in an interface ofthe computer system (e.g., a client computer system such as a personalcomputer (PC)) used to play the computer-based game. For example, theoutcome of a series of plays associated with the ticket may be stored inthe server, and provided to the client, and the series of outcomes maybe presented to the player during play of the computer-based game.

In another embodiment of the system, a payout of the ticket may beencoded on the ticket. For instance, if the ticket is a $5 winner, theamount of the win may be encoded on the ticket. In the case of thecasino-based version of the system, the payout may not be stored on theticket (as the payout is not predetermined), but rather the purchaseprice of the ticket may be stored on the ticket, or some otheridentifier of the ticket.

As shown in FIG. 5, a system 500 may be provided having more than oneserver. For instance, a server 502 provided at the point of sale 501 isprimarily responsible with issuing tickets to a user/player 506. To thisend, server 502 may issue preprinted tickets or may issue ticketsprinted from an associated printer 505. Such tickets may include one ormore identifiers as discussed above with reference to FIG. 2. Asdiscussed, another system such as a Keno or lottery-based system may beused to provide results to an online game system.

In one version of system 500, the win/loss determination of a ticket maybe driven by a later-occurring drawing. For example, a Keno-based,bingo-based, or other type lottery draw system may be used wherein theoutcome of a particular game is not known until a future time (e.g.,when a drawing occurs). In this case, the ticket identifier stored onthe ticket may be an access code generated from ticket identifiers inthe Keno-based system (e.g., by an intermediate system or the Kenoserver itself that can translate a Keno ticket identifier into anothertype of identifier).

Generation of an identifier separate from the Keno ticket identifier maybe necessary for security reasons relating to the Keno system. Moreparticularly, access to the Keno ticket identifiers may not be permittedby the system (e.g., the Keno server). In one example, a Keno systemtranslates Keno ticket identifiers into access codes and results thatare stored on the game server (e.g., server 503). Thereafter, clients(e.g., hosts 504A, 504B) access results stored on the server based ontheir respective access codes.

As discussed above, one or more hosts 504A, 504B (e.g., general purposecomputer systems) may communicate with a server 503 over a network forthe purpose of conducting a game. In one example, a host 504A renders abrowser window by executing a browser program (e.g., the InternetExplorer browser program available from the Microsoft Corporation). Auser/player 506 enters a URL address specified by an issued ticket in awindow of the browser interface, and is directed to a website associatedwith server 503. This website may be rendered by, for example, a WWWserver process (e.g., server 507) associated with server 503.

Player 506 may be instructed to enter an access code (and/or any otherrequired information) to access one or more games in an interfacepresented through the browser. As discussed, server 503 may validate thereceived access code, and provide any results stored in a databaseassociated with server 510. Once validated by server 503, the user maybe permitted to play one or more games. These game may be, for example,be programmed using one or more programming languages (e.g., MacromediaFlash) and may be downloaded to host 504A and executed.

Also, outcomes associated with any games may be downloaded prior to gameplay. As discussed, examples of games include those that may be of thelottery-type (e.g., having a predetermined outcome) and those that arecasino-based (e.g., having an outcome that is not determined at the timeof sale of the ticket). In the case where a later drawing affects anoutcome, a player may not be permitted to play the game until thedrawing occurs (and until results are available at server 503). In thecase of a drawing that affects outcomes, drawing results can becommunicated from server 502 to server 503. In addition, server 502 maymaintain a mapping from a ticket identifier (e.g., a serial number) toan access code provided on the ticket, and provide a mapping of outcometo access code when the drawing occurs. As discussed, such outcomeinformation may be maintained in a database 510 associated with server503 and may be accessed through a database server process 509.

As discussed, the payout of the lottery ticket may be displayed to aplayer in a number of ways. For instance, the payout of the ticket maybe presented to the player through one or more reveals presented to aplayer during one or more plays of an online game.

For instance, in the case of a slot machine game, a player may bepermitted, with the issue of a single scratch or printed ticket, aseries of spins of the slot machine. The slot machine may, as the resultof each of the spins, produce results that contribute to the overallpayout to the player. For instance, after a single spin, a player may bepresented an indication that he/she has won $5. The payout to the playeras provided from the server database may be, for the series of spins,$50 overall, with particular outcomes for each spin. Additional spinresults may provide the additional $45 that the player will receive.Additional spins may add, subtract, or have no affect on thecontribution to the outcome of the game. These results of each spin ofthe slot machine game may be stored in the database of the serverindexed by the ticket identifier, or may be randomly determined by thegame program that renders the game. Further, as discussed above, theresults of each spin may be “scripted” such that the game experience ismore exciting to the player.

For example, in the case where the results of each spin are stored onthe server, the series of results may be downloaded to the client at thebeginning of the game as a series of entries, and the client may revealeach result as the player progresses through the series of spins. In therandom method, results for each individual spin are not predetermined,but rather are determined by the client in a random manner. Forinstance, the actual outcomes of each spin may be randomly chosen amongthe possible combination of outcomes that may produce the requiredpayout. In either case, the outcomes for each spin of the slot machinegame is not stored on the ticket, but rather is stored at the server anddownloaded just prior or during game play, or is determined randomly bythe client. Alternatively, the client may determine the game experiencebased on a predetermined set of rules or formulas that, when an overalloutcome is provided, allows the client to determine intermediateoutcomes in a dynamic way.

In the case of a prize wheel game, the actual spins may be scripted soas to create more excitement for the player. For instance, spin resultsmay be presented in a particular order, making the player believe theyare close to obtaining a particular prize on the prize wheel. Further,the player may play multiple game instances of a prize wheel game, andthe game experience may be scripted among the multiple game instances soas to increase the excitement of play. In one example, the pay table isincreased with each successive prize wheel game, and therefore, playerexcitement is increased as play progresses.

Because the game play and outcome are scripted, a player may also notplay the game (and possible secondary games) to actually win. A playermay purchase a ticket, wait until the ticket may be redeemed, and go toa POS to find out (and if necessary, receive) his/her winnings. A ticketmay be allowed to be redeemed after a predetermined period of time afterthe drawing independent of whether the player has played the game. Aticket may be able to be redeemed after a predetermined period of time,from almost immediately to seconds to days or any predetermined time.For tickets with results dependent upon results of a particular Kenogame or other event, the ticket may not be redeemed until after theevent has passed.

Finally, after play of the online game, the player is permitted tovalidate the ticket at any POS location (e.g., 501 (for example, alottery agent, casino, or other gaming establishment) to redeem his/herwinnings as indicated during the online portion of the game. Accordingto one embodiment, players are permitted to redeem their winnings onlyafter playing the online portion of the game. The player, by playing theonline portion of the game, sets status information at the server (e.g.,server 503). When the player attempts to redeem the ticket at the POS(e.g., 501), the status information may be checked, and the player ispermitted to redeem his/her winnings. To this end, server 503 maycommunicate information back to server 502 relating to game play.

For instance, server 503 may collect information that indicates thesequence of game play performed at the client, and other player trackinginformation. In one example, tickets may be associated with a particularplayer, and the player may be awarded loyalty points or other credit forplaying the game.

Taking a prize wheel game, a player is issued a ticket at a POS to playone or more instances (e.g., spins) of the prize wheel game. The ticketindicates an access code, and the player uses this access code to gainaccess to the system (e.g., from a host coupled to server 503 throughthe Internet). The player enters the access code in a user interface,and, once validated, is permitted to play the prize wheel game.Optionally, the player is permitted to play, based on a single accesscode (and ticket), any one of a number of games available from server503. Such an option may allow a player to play different games for eachgame instance associated with the ticket.

FIG. 6 shows an example game interface 600 according to one embodimentof the present invention. According to one embodiment, the game includesa prize wheel-type game.

The prize wheel-type game may, according to one embodiment, be a typicalprize wheel game having one or more prizes associated with sections ofthe prize wheel. However, it should be appreciated that other types ofprize wheel games may be used, having different formats, and theinvention is not limited to any particular prize wheel game.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the prizewheel-type game is presented to the player by a computer system in aninterface 600. In particular, in a display of a computer system uponwhich the game is played, one or more prize wheel representations (e.g.,wheel 601) may be rendered in interface 600, with each prize wheelhaving, in one example, a number of sections (e.g., section 602)arranged around the prize wheel. Prizes, word phrases, or otherindications may be presented within each section of the prize wheel.More particularly, each section may include indicia (e.g., indicia 603)that indicates a potential prize and/or word phrases or other indiciaassociated with a second level game (e.g., a trivia game). The indiciamay be, for example, characters, items, or any other type of elementssuitable for use in a prize wheel or similar game.

Entries of a pay table may be associated with sections of a prize wheel.According to one embodiment, it is appreciated that there may be moreentries in the pay table than there are available sections of the prizewheel. Thus, to make all pay table entries possible, certain pay tableentries may not be available on particular instances of the prize wheel,or the available entries may be adjusted to heighten the game experience(e.g., higher payout amounts for later instances of the prize wheel).Also, certain entries of the pay table may be omitted, if the result ofthe overall game is predetermined (or determined prior to gameactivation), and therefore, those pay table entries may be omitted.

A prize wheel game is played generally by spinning the wheel, and theplayer winning any prize indicated by a pointer element (e.g., pointer609) or other element. In a traditional prize wheel game, a participantwins the prize indicated, but as discussed above, one or more losingsections may indicate a word or word phrase. When the pointer indicatesone of these losing sections, a second level game is initiated, such asa trivia game. In one example, when the pointer indicates the word orword phrase, a piece of trivia related to that word or word phrase isshown to the player. In this manner, entertainment of the player isincreased over that of a simple indication of a loss. To this end, thegame program may present to the player, a window indicating the triviarelated to the word or word phrase (not shown). The window may be apopup window showing the trivia element. For instance, with the wordphrase “Diana Ross” may be associated the trivia element “Sang thenational anthem at the 1996 Super Bowl.”

The prize wheel game interface 600 may also include a control 605 whichmay be any type of control (e.g., a button, lever, etc.) that, whenactivated, causes the prize wheel to spin. Such a control may beselected by the player using a selection method (e.g., keyboard entry,mouse, etc.) on the computer system upon which the player plays thegame.

Further, interface 600 may also include an indicator 604 that indicatesthe remaining spins of the prize wheel. As discussed, the player may beallowed a finite number of spins to win any particular prize wheel game.Further, interface 600 may include a prize indication that shows theprizes currently won. In another example, interface 600 may include anindication that the current spin is a winning spin, and that the playerwins a prize (e.g., indication 607).

In another example, the game program may include a mode wherein thewheel automatically spins and lands on a prize (or not), or may includeany number of indications or controls located on or off a representationof the prize wheel. The type and layout of the prize wheel is notlimited to the type and layout shown in FIG. 6. Rather, it should beappreciated that the prize wheel may be any type and layout, and theinvention is not limited to any particular prize wheel card type orlayout.

The prize wheel game ends when the player exhausts the allotted spins(e.g., 3 spins) for a particular game, and/or plays the last allottedgame of the prize wheel game (or any other game permitted by the gamesystem). As an additional option, a player may bypass play of the prizewheel game by selecting control 606 within interface 600. Moreparticularly, interface 600 may also include a control 606 that quitsthe game and reveals any prizes won by the player. Selection of element606 may cause the prize wheel game to end and may allow the player toprogress to another game (e.g., a prize wheel game or other type ofgame). The result of any particular instance of a prize wheel game maybe associated with a prize and then revealed to the player at the end ofany particular prize wheel game instance.

After play of any particular prize wheel game, game play is returned toanother instance of the game (e.g., the prize wheel game). The playermay, however, choose to play a different game (e.g., a card game orother game) at the conclusion of any particular game instance. In thecase of the prize wheel game, a game instance may be concluded.According to another embodiment, the play of each game instance isindependent of all other game instances. According to anotherembodiment, the outcome of a particular game instance is predetermined.

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is realized thatthe time at which tickets are activated (and therefore, may be played)is important. In the case of a casino-based game, where tickets areissued at the casino, it may be beneficial to include a delay betweenthe purchase of a ticket and a possible redemption of the ticket so thatthe game play associated with the ticket does not compete against othergames offered by the casino (e.g., floor games). For example, in thecase of a prize wheel game, it may be preferable that such a game beactivated after the player leaves the casino, or otherwise is notplayable while in the casino so as not to compete with other types ofgames offered by the casino.

Further, another benefit of introducing a delay between ticket issuanceand activation includes increasing the likelihood that the player playsthe game at another location (e.g., at home), requiring the return ofthe player to the ticket redemption location to redeem his/her winnings.Because the player needs to return to the redemption location (which maybe a casino), the possibility that the player will purchase additionaltickets or play other types of games offered at the redemption locationis increased.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the result of eachgame instance (e.g., a prize wheel game result) may be predetermined,whereas the result of spin or other game play element is determinedusing some random number generator (or RNG). In this manner, the playeris provided a predetermined result, but the game play that occurs in thefirst level game is a random number-generated experience which is moresimilar to actual play in a casino or other online gaming experience.However, because it may be desired to increase the drama of anyparticular prize wheel game, it may be beneficial to provide apredetermined (or scripted) outcome for at least a portion of the prizewheel game (e.g., the result of a spin) so as to provide an increasedgame experience for the player.

According to one embodiment, a player is only permitted to play oneinstance of the prize wheel game. In this case, the player uses providedspins to achieve the result of the prize wheel game, and when completed,the player is provided a single result associated with the game. Inanother example, any spins remaining after the player wins a prize arelost. After play of the prize wheel game, the online portion of the gameis over.

Alternatively, the player may be permitted to play further instances ofthe prize wheel game, with each level of the prize wheel game leading toa revealing of prizes. These intermediate prize amounts that arerevealed with each instance of the prize wheel game, as discussed above,may be stored in a database of the server, and provided to the clientprior to or during game play. Alternatively, intermediate prize amountsmay be determined at the client in a random manner (e.g., by randomlyselecting a possible combination of intermediate prize amounts thattotal the overall prize awarded to the player). In another example, agame may be determined dynamically by the game system or client based onone or more rules. These rules may be tailored so that the overallresult is revealed by the game system in an interesting way.

For instance, the ticket may have an overall prize value of $50, and theprize awarded at each instance of the prize wheel game may accumulate toform the $50 prize. There may be a finite number of combinations basedon the number of game instances to achieve a $50 prize, and the actualgame experience presented to the player may be a random selection of thefinite outcomes. In any case, the result of each game instance is eitherstored at the server or is determined randomly or dynamically by theclient as discussed above.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the points awarded forparticular combinations of indicia of the prize wheel game may bechanged according to the spin number so as to increase the game “drama”to maintain player interest. For instance, as the spin number isincreased, the points awarded for a particular combination of indiciamay also increase. In another example, particular paylines may also beincreased or activated based on the spin number or number of prize wheelgame instance, providing an increased level of excitement for theplayer.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a prize wheel gameis conducted that may include the following additional aspects, eitheralone or in combination:

-   -   Each user receives five plays of a prize wheel game at the start        of the game.    -   In another alternative, each player is provided three spins of a        prize wheel for each prize wheel game instance. In one example,        the pay table is adjusted upward for each successive game        instance played to create more interest to the player. In        another example, the pay table is adjusted with successive spin        numbers to create more interest within each game instance.    -   To begin, the user selects a start button presented in an        interface of the game.    -   The player is presented a wheel having a number of sections        (e.g., wedged portions of the prize wheel).    -   Each section of the prize wheel includes an indication of a        prize or includes a word or word phrase associated with a trivia        game.    -   When the prize wheel is available to be spun, the top of the        lever (or other control) flashes.    -   If the wheel stops on a prize indication, the player wins the        indicated prize.    -   If the wheel stops on a word or word phrase, the player is shown        a piece of trivia related to that word or word phrase.    -   Trivia, when shown, obscures the prize wheel, and the prize        wheel is inactive.    -   The player is presented a control, that, when selected by the        player, allows the player to return to the prize wheel to        perform any remaining spins.    -   At the conclusion of the game (e.g., a game instance or series        of game instances associated with a ticket), the player is        presented an indication that the game is over and a report of        any prizes won by the player.    -   The initial ticket issued may be used at a redemption center for        claiming any awarded prize(s).    -   In another example, the result of any prize wheel game may be        determined by an RNG and odds at the moment of play, or may be        determined at the time that a lottery ticket is printed.    -   The overall result (e.g., payout) of purchasing a ticket may be        predetermined (as in a scratch or other type of instant lottery        game) or may be determined by a later event (such as a lottery,        Keno, or bingo draw).

Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of thisinvention, it is to be appreciated that various alterations,modifications and improvements will readily occur to those skilled inthe art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intendedto be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spiritand scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description is byway of example only.

1. A method for playing a game of chance comprising acts of: issuing aticket to a player, the ticket including a code printed on a surface ofthe ticket; and providing for the player to play a prize wheel game ondifferent medium than the issued ticket, wherein the code is used togain access to obtain results of the game of chance.
 2. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the act of issuing a ticket includesissuing at least one of a lottery ticket, a scratch ticket, and apull-tab ticket.
 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the act ofproviding further comprises an act of providing a computer-based gamewhich the player plays the prize wheel game to reveal the results of thegame of chance.
 4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the act ofproviding a computer-based game further comprises an act of permittingaccess to the results of the game of chance by using the code as adecryption key to obtain the results.
 5. The method according to claim1, further comprising an act of storing, on a server, the results of thegame of chance.
 6. The method according to claim 3, further comprisingstoring, in a database of a computer system, a portion of a decryptionkey, the portion being used along with the code by the computer systemto obtain the results.
 7. The method according to claim 3, wherein theact of providing includes an act of permitting access to a website toplay the prize wheel game.
 8. The method according to claim 6, furthercomprising an act of obtaining, from the database of the computersystem, the portion of the decryption key based on an identifier printedon the ticket.
 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein theidentifier is a serial number associated with the ticket.
 10. The methodaccording to claim 1, further comprising an act of presenting, to theplayer, an interface in which the player is permitted to enter the codeto obtain security access to the results.
 11. The method according toclaim 1, wherein the prize wheel game is a game of chance.
 12. Themethod according to claim 1, wherein at least one spin of a prize wheelin the prize wheel game is determined by a random number generator. 13.The method according to claim 1, wherein the prize wheel game is acomputer-based game including a prize wheel having one or more prizewheel sections, each section having associated indicia that, whenselected by spinning the prize wheel, provides one or more prizes to theplayer.
 14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising an actof providing a pay table, the pay table having a plurality of entriesdistributed among the one or more prize wheel sections.
 15. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the prize total for the ticket ispredetermined.
 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein thesequence of reveals is predetermined.
 17. The method according to claim15, wherein the reveals are randomly determined by the client.
 18. Themethod according to claim 16, wherein the sequence of reveals is storedin a database of a server.
 19. The method according to claim 14, whereinthe plurality of entries of the pay table are distributed among aplurality of instances of the prize wheel game.
 20. The method accordingto claim 19, further comprising an act of increasing a magnitude ofavailable prizes distributed to later instances of the prize wheel game.21. The method according to claim 12, wherein the result of the at leastone spin of the prize wheel game reveals a prize won by the player. 22.The method according to claim 21, wherein the prize won by the player isat least one of cash, merchandise, and credit.
 23. The method accordingto claim 21, wherein an indication of the prize won by the player isstored in a database of a server, and is downloaded to a computerpresenting the computer-based game to the player.
 24. The methodaccording to claim 1, further comprising an act of associating, with theticket, additional opportunities to win.
 25. The method according toclaim 24, wherein the additional opportunities to win include one ormore additional reveals of results associated with the game of chance.26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the one or more additionalreveals of results are presented during play of an online game.
 27. Themethod according to claim 1, further comprising an act of providing, bya first server associated with a first game, a result associated withthe game of chance.
 28. The method according to claim 27, furthercomprising an act of storing, in a memory of a computer system, theresult associated with the game of chance.
 29. The method according toclaim 28, further comprising an act of associating the result with anindication of the ticket.
 30. The method according to claim 29, whereinthe indication of the ticket is unique among indicators of a pluralityof tickets.
 31. The method according to claim 27, wherein the firstserver further comprises a random number generator, and the randomnumber generator performs an act of determining a set numbers associatedwith the issued ticket.
 32. The method according to claim 27, furthercomprising an act of determining a set of winning numbers associatedwith the game of chance.
 33. The method according to claim 32, furthercomprising an act of determining the result of the game of chance basedon a comparison of the set of numbers associated with the issued ticketand the set of winning numbers.
 34. The method according to claim 31,wherein the game of chance includes at least one of a Keno game and abingo game, and the act of determining a set of numbers associated withthe issued ticket comprises an act of selecting a predetermined numberof numbers from a predetermined set of numbers.
 35. The method accordingto claim 1, further comprising an act of permitting the player to redeemthe issued ticket without playing the game on the different medium. 36.The method according to claim 15, wherein the sequence of reveals isdetermined by a predetermined game script.
 37. The method according toclaim 15, wherein the sequence of reveals is determined dynamically by agame playing computer system.
 38. The method according to claim 36,further comprising an act of determining a predetermined game scriptwhere a magnitude of prizes awarded for reveals associated with laterwin opportunities are progressively greater than the magnitude of prizesassociated with reveals associated with earlier win opportunities. 39.The method according to claim 36, further comprising an act ofdetermining, for an issued ticket indicated as a losing ticket, a gamescript comprising an indication that the player was substantially closeto winning.
 40. The method according to claim 35, wherein the playermust wait a predetermined time period before redeeming the ticket. 41.The method according to claim 35, wherein the player must wait until aspecific event has been completed before redeeming the ticket.
 42. Themethod according to claim 1, wherein the player must wait until aspecific event has been completed before gaining access to obtainresults associated with the ticket.
 43. The method according to claim 1,wherein the issued ticket discloses the number of prize wheel gameinstances awarded the player.
 44. The method according to claim 1,wherein the prize total for the ticket is determined after the ticket isissued to the player.
 45. The method according to claim 44, furthercomprising an act of determining an outcome associated with the ticketbased on a drawing.
 46. The method according to claim 45, furthercomprising an act of permitting the player to play the prize wheel gamein response to the act of determining the outcome.
 47. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the prize total for the ticket isdetermined prior to issuing the ticket to the player.
 48. The methodaccording to claim 19, further comprising an act of increasing amagnitude of available prizes distributed to later spins of the prizewheel game within an instance of the prize wheel game.